Detroit Free Press Pop Music Writer

Brown, right, was last seen around these parts when he rolled into town with the reunited New Edition at the turn of 2012 -- about a month before the death of ex-wife Whitney Houston. Expect a set of greatest hits at this Detroit show, just one of two dates so far on Brown's 2013 schedule. 8 p.m., Sound Board at MotorCity Casino Hotel, 2901 Grand River, Detroit. 313-237-7711. $36, $42.

FRIDAY

Lotus

This adventurous quintet is one of the principal players in the hybrid world where jam rock meets EDM -- precisely why the band has been a long-running favorite at Michigan's Rothbury and Electric Forest festivals. Lotus is early into a 2013 campaign that will include the Feb. 19 release of "Build," the group's latest album for SCI Fidelity Records, the label run by fellow traveler String Cheese Incident. Opening is Moon Hooch. 8 p.m., Royal Oak Music Theatre, 318 W. Fourth, Royal Oak. 248-399-2980. $22, $25.

Angelique Kidjo

This Benin-born singer-songwriter became the face of African pop music in the 1990s, racking up a slew of Grammy Awards and landing a role as a UNICEF ambassador. Kidjo and her band bring their melting pot of sounds as she tours behind the first live album of her career, the lively "Spirit Rising," whose guest collaborators include Branford Marsalis and Josh Groban. 8 p.m., Hill Auditorium, 825 N. University, Ann Arbor. 734-764-2538. $10-$46.

FRIDAY-SATURDAY

Lez Zeppelin

With a name that's always guaranteed to grab a second glance from Zep heads -- and a sound that seals the deal -- this femme quartet has locked up a reputation as one of the top tribute bands in the land. The Magic Bag is a longtime stomping ground for the New York outfit, who have whipped up a special set of shows for this unique two-night stand: Friday will feature a performance of the "Led Zeppelin" album in its entirety, with "Led Zeppelin II" to follow on Saturday night. The group has promised "hits and rarities" to round out each night's set. 8 p.m., the Magic Bag, 22920 Woodward, Ferndale. 248-544-3030. $20.

SATURDAY

Umphrey's McGee

Touring to celebrate the 15th anniversary of its first live show, this Notre Dame-bred six-piece brings a sprawling, career-spanning set -- with a musical attack that's tight enough to rock and loose enough to make room for left-field pop cover tunes. Be sure to arrive early: Opening the show is Michigan's Greensky Bluegrass. 7 p.m., the Fillmore Detroit, 2115 Woodward, Detroit. 313-961-5450. $22.50, $30. (Umphrey's McGee will also play with Greensky Bluegrass on Friday in Grand Rapids: 7 p.m., Orbit Room, 2525 Lake Eastbrook Blvd. 616-942-1328. $22.50.)

SUNDAY

Papadosio

Music fans have limited options on Super Bowl night, but this North Carolina-based jam-band will put on its game face for a night of progressive, escapist rock. 7 p.m., St. Andrew's Hall, 431 E. Congress, Detroit. 313-961-6358. $12, $15.